Multi-nozzle 3D printer

Abstract

The utility model relates to the technical field of 3D printers, and particularly discloses a multi-nozzle 3D printer which comprises a rack, a plurality of printing nozzles arranged on the rack, a workbench and a printing module used for taking and placing the printing nozzles, the rack is further provided with a driving module used for driving the printing module to move relative to the workbench, the number of the printing nozzles is multiple, and the driving module is used for driving the printing module to move relative to the workbench. The printing nozzles are provided with connecting pieces, the printing nozzles are used for being arranged on the rack through the connecting pieces, the multiple printing nozzles are arranged in an array mode, the printing module is used for being matched with the printing nozzles to print finished products on the workbench, and through the design of the multiple nozzles, the 3D printing efficiency and flexibility are remarkably improved; different printing nozzles can be used for loading materials with different colors or printing media with different types, so that multi-color printing, multi-material printing or simultaneous layered printing of a supporting structure and a main body structure are realized, the types of printed products are greatly enriched, and the complexity of the printed products is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The utility model relates to the technical field of 3D printers, and in particular discloses a 3D printer with multiple print heads. Background Art

[0002] The FDM rapid prototyping technology is based on a digital model file. It heats and melts a linear thermoplastic material. At the same time, under the control of a computer, the print head selectively extrudes the material according to the cross-sectional profile information and cools and solidifies it on the workbench. After one layer is formed, the workbench descends by a layer height and then forms the next layer until the entire solid model is formed.

[0003] At present, most 3D printers on the market are single-printhead monochromatic printers or multi-printheads that cannot print a model simultaneously. The printing time is long and they cannot meet the printing tasks of models with more and more complex colors. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a 3D printer with multiple print heads. Summary of the Utility Model

[0004] In order to overcome the disadvantages and deficiencies in the prior art, the purpose of the utility model is to provide a 3D printer with multiple print heads.

[0005] To achieve the above purpose, a 3D printer with multiple print heads of the utility model includes a frame, a print head arranged on the frame, a workbench, and a printing module for picking and placing the print head. A driving module for driving the printing module to move relative to the workbench is also arranged on the frame. There are multiple print heads, and the print head is provided with a connecting member. The print head is arranged on the frame via the connecting member. The multiple print heads are arranged in an array. The printing module is used to cooperate with the print head to print a finished product on the workbench.

[0006] Preferably, the connecting member is a magnetic attraction member, and the frame is made of ferromagnetic material / ferromagnetic material for magnetic attraction of the magnetic attraction member is arranged on the frame. The print head is movably arranged on the frame via the magnetic attraction member. The combination of the magnetic attraction member and the ferromagnetic material enables the magnetic attraction member to approach the ferromagnetic material on the frame, and a firm adsorption connection can be achieved. When disassembly is required, only a gentle separation of the two is needed. This connection method greatly improves the convenience and flexibility of operation, facilitating the printing module to pick and place the print head. Since the magnetic attraction connection is achieved through magnetic force, it will not cause physical scratches, wear or damage to the connecting components. This is particularly important for equipment or structures that need to be frequently disassembled and assembled, and can effectively extend the service life of the equipment. The magnetic attraction connection does not depend on a specific shape or size. As long as sufficient magnetic force can be generated between the magnetic attraction member and the ferromagnetic material, the connection can be achieved. This enables this technical means to be applied in various situations, improving its adaptability and versatility.

[0007] Preferably, the connecting member forms a protrusion on the side closer to the frame from the printing nozzle. A groove for accommodating the protrusion is provided on the frame. The printing nozzle is used to be limited to a predetermined position on the frame via the protrusion. The matching design of the protrusion and the groove can effectively limit the freedom of movement of the printing nozzle on the frame, thereby enhancing the stability of the printing nozzle during the working process. This connection helps to reduce printing errors caused by vibration or external force interference, improve printing accuracy. The precise groove design can ensure that each printing nozzle can be accurately installed at a predetermined position, further improving the overall positioning accuracy of the multi-nozzle 3D printer.

[0008] Preferably, the driving module includes a corexy moving component arranged on the frame for driving the printing module to move along the X-axis and Y-axis. The corexy moving component is used to move the printing module parallel to the workbench relative to the workbench. The driving module further includes a first driving member arranged on the frame. The first driving member is used to move the workbench closer to or away from the printing module. Compared with the traditional X-Y structure, the Corexy structure usually has advantages in terms of moving speed and accuracy because it couples the movements of the two axes through mechanical structures such as synchronous belts and pulleys, reducing friction and vibration during the movement, thereby improving the overall movement performance and printing quality.

[0009] Preferably, a cooling nozzle used in cooperation with the printing nozzle is provided on the printing module. The cooling nozzle is used to connect to an external gas source device to cool the printing nozzle and the nozzle on the printing nozzle. By timely reducing the temperature of the printing nozzle and its nozzle, the cooling nozzle can effectively prevent problems such as uneven melting of materials, nozzle blockage or deformation caused by high temperature, helping to maintain the stability of the printing process, improve the accuracy and surface quality of the printed product. Long-term high-temperature operation will cause thermal stress damage to the printing nozzle and its components, accelerating their aging and wear. The introduction of the cooling nozzle can effectively reduce this thermal stress, thereby extending the service life of the printing nozzle and its related components.

[0010] Preferably, a limiting member and a second driving member for driving the limiting member to pick up and place the printing nozzle are provided on the printing module. A first groove for accommodating the limiting member is provided on the printing nozzle. The printing module realizes the picking up and placing of the printing nozzle by the limiting member abutting against / canceling the inner wall of the first groove. The design of the protrusion and the groove makes the installation position of the connecting member on the frame more accurate, avoiding misalignment or shaking during installation. This design enhances the stability between the connecting member and the frame, ensuring the stability and reliability of the entire device or system during operation. Through the quick docking method of the protrusion and the groove, the installation process between the connecting member and the frame is simplified, and the installation efficiency is improved. Without complex alignment or fastening steps, quick and convenient installation can be achieved.

[0011] Preferably, the internal channel of the cooling nozzle gradually narrows from the air inlet to the ventilation opening.

[0012] Preferably, a sensor is also provided on the printing module. The sensor is used to determine the relative position of the printing module with respect to the print head for connecting or placing the print head. The sensor can real-time sense and determine the relative position between the printing module and the print head, thereby achieving precise positioning and automatic alignment of the print head, effectively improving the printing accuracy and efficiency. Through the real-time monitoring of the sensor, it can be ensured that the print head is always in a safe and stable state during the connection or placement process, avoiding accidental collisions or damages caused by improper positions, protecting the safety and stability of the equipment. At the same time, the precise positioning of the print head helps to achieve a more uniform and consistent printing effect, improving the printing quality and the consistency of the overall finished product. The sensor can also be used to monitor the connection state between the printing module and the print head. Once an abnormality or fault is detected, an alarm or prompt message can be immediately issued, facilitating the user to troubleshoot and maintain in a timely manner, reducing the downtime and production losses caused by faults for the user, helping to improve the intelligent level of the entire production line, and enhancing the production efficiency and flexibility.

[0013] Preferably, a speed reducer for cooperating with the first driving member is also provided on the frame. The speed reducer is used to precisely control the moving distance of the workbench relative to the printing module. Through its characteristics of reducing speed and increasing torque, the speed reducer converts the high-speed and low-torque output of the first driving member into a low-speed and high-torque output, thereby achieving fine control of the moving distance of the workbench, greatly improving the positioning accuracy of the workbench during the printing process, and ensuring the precise matching of the printing quality with the design. Due to the precise control of the speed reducer, the workbench can move according to the preset path and speed, reducing printing errors caused by speed fluctuations or position offsets. The introduction of the speed reducer makes the movement of the entire transmission system more stable, reducing vibrations and noises caused by sudden speed changes or impacts. It not only improves the comfort of the working environment but also reduces the adverse effects of vibrations on the printing quality, enhancing the stability of the entire system.

[0014] Advantages of the present utility model: The efficiency and flexibility of 3D printing are significantly improved through the multi-nozzle design. Different print heads can be loaded with different colors of materials or different types of printing media, thereby achieving multi-color printing, multi-material printing, or simultaneous layered printing of the support structure and the main structure, greatly enriching the types of printed products and reducing their complexity. In addition, the coordinated work of multiple nozzles can also shorten the printing cycle and improve the production efficiency; the design of the connecting piece makes the installation, replacement, and maintenance of the print head simple and fast, improving the operability and flexibility of the equipment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 is a schematic structural diagram of the main body of the present utility model;

[0016] Figure 2Schematic diagram of the internal structure of the body of the present utility model;

[0017] Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the corexy moving component structure of the present utility model;

[0018] Figure 4 Schematic diagram of the printing module and printing nozzle structure of the present utility model;

[0019] Figure 5 Schematic diagram of the position of the workbench of the present utility model;

[0020] Figure 6 Schematic diagram of the printing nozzle structure of the present utility model;

[0021] Figure 7 Schematic diagram of the cooling nozzle structure of the present utility model.

[0022] Reference numerals include:

[0023] 1, frame; 2, workbench; 3, printing module; 4, printing nozzle; 21, frame body; 31, limiting member;

[0024] 32, second magnetic member; 33, cooling nozzle; 34, blanking assembly; 35, sensor; 41, first groove body;

[0025] 42, second groove body; 43, second ferromagnetic member; 44, magnetic attracting member; 45, protrusion; 51, first driving member;

[0026] 52, speed reducer; 53, slide rail; 54, roller body. Detailed implementation manners

[0027] For the convenience of understanding by those skilled in the art, the present utility model will be further described below in conjunction with embodiments and the accompanying drawings. The content mentioned in the implementation manners does not limit the present utility model.

[0028] Please refer to Figures 1 to 7 As shown, a multi-nozzle 3D printer of the present utility model includes a frame 1, a printing nozzle 4 arranged on the frame 1, a workbench 2, and a printing module 3 for picking and placing the printing nozzle 4. A driving module for driving the printing module 3 to move relative to the workbench 2 is further arranged on the frame 1. A plurality of printing nozzles 4 are provided, and the printing nozzles 4 are provided with connecting members. The printing nozzles 4 are used to be arranged on the frame 1 via the connecting members. The plurality of printing nozzles 4 are arranged in an array. The printing module 3 is used to cooperate with the printing nozzles 4 to print finished parts on the workbench 2.

[0029] Specifically, the multi-nozzle design significantly improves the efficiency and flexibility of 3D printing. Different printing nozzles 4 can be loaded with materials of different colors or different types of printing media, so as to achieve multi-color printing, multi-material printing, or hierarchical printing of the support structure and the main structure simultaneously, greatly enriching the types of printed products and reducing their complexity. In addition, the coordinated work of multiple nozzles can also shorten the printing cycle and improve production efficiency; the design of the connecting piece makes the installation, replacement, and maintenance of the printing nozzle simple and fast, improving the operability and flexibility of the equipment.

[0030] Specifically, a frame body 21 is also detachably arranged on the workbench 2. The workbench 2 is slidably arranged horizontally relative to the machine frame 1 via the frame body 21, and the frame body 21 is slidably arranged vertically relative to the machine frame 1.

[0031] Specifically, a slide rail 53 is arranged on the machine frame 1. There are multiple slide rails 53, and the multiple slide rails 53 are arranged in a circular array around the machine frame 1. The frame body 21 is slidably arranged on the machine frame 1 via the slide rail 53.

[0032] Specifically, the connecting piece is a magnetic attraction piece 44, and the machine frame 1 is made of ferromagnetic material / ferromagnetic material for magnetic attraction piece 44 to adsorb is arranged on the machine frame 1. The printing nozzle 4 is movably arranged on the machine frame 1 via the magnetic attraction piece 44. The combination of the magnetic attraction piece 44 and the ferromagnetic material enables the magnetic attraction piece 44 to approach the ferromagnetic material on the machine frame 1, and a firm adsorption connection can be achieved. When disassembly is required, only a gentle separation of the two is needed. This connection method greatly improves the convenience and flexibility of operation, facilitating the printing module 3 to pick up and place the printing nozzle 4. Since the magnetic connection is achieved through magnetic force, it will not cause physical scratches, wear, or damage to the connecting parts, which is particularly important for equipment or structures that need to be disassembled and assembled frequently, and can effectively extend the service life of the equipment. The magnetic connection does not depend on a specific shape or size. As long as sufficient magnetic force can be generated between the magnetic attraction piece 44 and the ferromagnetic material, the connection can be achieved. This enables this technical means to be applied in a variety of situations, improving its adaptability and versatility.

[0033] Specifically, ferromagnetic materials are the main objects that magnets can strongly adsorb. Such materials include iron, cobalt, nickel, and their alloys, as well as some oxides such as ferrites. The reason why ferromagnetic materials can be adsorbed by magnets is that the arrangement of their atomic electrons makes it easy for electrons to be arranged in the same magnetic direction, thus generating magnetism. When an external magnetic field acts on these materials, the magnetic domains (i.e., small regions with the same magnetization direction) inside will rearrange, making the whole show strong magnetism externally and thus being adsorbed by the magnet.

[0034] Specifically, the end face of the magnetic attraction piece 44 that is not used for adsorbing the ferromagnetic material can be coated with magnetic isolation material.

[0035] Specifically, the connecting member forms a protrusion 45 on the side of the printing nozzle 4 closer to the frame 1. A groove for accommodating the protrusion 45 is provided on the frame 1. The printing nozzle 4 is used to be limited to a predetermined position on the frame 1 via the protrusion 45. The matching design of the protrusion 45 and the groove can effectively limit the degree of freedom of movement of the printing nozzle on the frame, thereby enhancing the stability of the printing nozzle during operation. This connection helps to reduce printing errors caused by vibration or external force interference, improve printing accuracy. The precise groove design can ensure that each printing nozzle can be accurately installed in the predetermined position, further improving the overall positioning accuracy of the multi-nozzle 3D printer.

[0036] Specifically, a chamfer is provided at the free end of the protrusion 45 to facilitate entry into the groove.

[0037] Specifically, in other embodiments, the magnetic member 44 is provided at the free end of the protrusion 45 formed on the side of the printing nozzle 4 closer to the frame 1.

[0038] Specifically, the drive module includes a corexy moving member provided on the frame 1 for driving the printing module 3 to move along the X-axis and Y-axis. The corexy moving member is used to move the printing module 3 parallel to the workbench 2. The drive module further includes a first driving member 51 provided on the frame 1. The first driving member 51 is used to move the workbench closer to or away from the printing module 3. Compared with the traditional X-Y structure, the Corexy structure usually has advantages in terms of movement speed and accuracy because it couples the movements of the two axes through mechanical structures such as synchronous belts and pulleys, reducing friction and vibration during movement, thereby improving the overall movement performance and printing quality.

[0039] Specifically, the CoreXY moving member mainly refers to the moving platform and its related components in the CoreXY structure. These components work together to achieve high-precision two-dimensional (X, Y-axis) movement. The CoreXY moving member includes a moving platform: This is the core moving component in the CoreXY structure, carrying the print head or other components that need to move. In this embodiment, the moving platform is the frame 1; motors: In the CoreXY structure, two motors (such as stepper motors) are used to control the movement of the moving platform. These two motors are respectively connected to the moving platform through transmission devices (such as synchronous belts, synchronous wheels installed on the frame 1, etc.). By coordinating rotation, they drive the platform to move in the X-axis and Y-axis directions. The transmission device is a key component connecting the motor and the moving platform, and they are responsible for converting the rotational movement of the motor into the linear movement of the moving platform. In the CoreXY structure, in this embodiment, the transmission device can include synchronous belts, synchronous wheels, idler wheels, etc.; a central control system: The central control system receives signals from sensors or other input devices, calculates the angles and speeds at which the motors need to rotate, and sends control signals to each driving member through a driver, thereby achieving precise control of the moving platform.

[0040] Specifically, the printing module 3 is provided with a cooling nozzle 33 used in conjunction with the printing nozzle 4. The cooling nozzle 33 is used to connect to an external air source device to cool the printing nozzle 4 and / or the nozzle on the printing nozzle 4. The cooling nozzle 33 can effectively prevent problems such as uneven material melting, nozzle clogging or deformation caused by high temperature by timely reducing the temperature of the printing nozzle 4 and its nozzle, which helps to maintain the stability of the printing process and improve the accuracy and surface quality of the printed product. Long-term high-temperature operation will cause thermal stress damage to the printing nozzle 4 and its components, and accelerate its aging and wear. The introduction of the cooling nozzle 33 can effectively reduce this thermal stress, thereby extending the service life of the printing nozzle and its related components.

[0041] Specifically, the printing module 3 is provided with a limit member 31 and a second driving member for driving the limit member 31 to pick up and place the printing nozzle 4. The printing nozzle 4 is provided with a first slot 41 for accommodating the limit member 31. The printing module 3 is contacted / cancelled by the limit member 31 against the inner wall of the first slot 41 to achieve the placement and pick up of the printing nozzle 4. The design of the protrusion 45 and the slot makes the installation position of the connecting member on the frame more accurate, avoiding misalignment or shaking during installation. This design enhances the stability between the connecting member and the frame, ensures the stability and reliability of the entire device or system during operation, and simplifies the installation process between the connecting member and the frame through the quick docking method of the protrusion 45 and the slot, thereby improving the installation efficiency. No complicated alignment or fastening steps are required, so that fast and convenient installation can be achieved.

[0042] Specifically, the print head 4 is further provided with a second groove 42 connected to the first groove 41. In this embodiment, the first groove 41 is used for the limiting member 31 to enter the second groove 42. The limiting member 31 limits the printing module 3 and the print head 4 by contacting the inner wall of the second groove 42.

[0043] Specifically, the print head 4 is provided with a second ferromagnetic component 43 for use with the print module 3 . The magnetism of the second magnetic component 32 is smaller than that of the first magnetic component and is used to adsorb the print module 3 . The print module 3 is provided with a ferromagnetic component.

[0044] Specifically, the internal passage of the cooling nozzle 33 gradually narrows from the air inlet to the vent.

[0045] Specifically, a sensor 35 is also provided on the printing module 3. The sensor 35 is used to determine the relative position of the printing module 3 with respect to the printing nozzle 4 for connecting or placing the printing nozzle 4. The sensor 35 can sense and determine the relative position between the printing module 3 and the printing nozzle 4 in real time, thereby achieving precise positioning and automatic alignment of the printing nozzle, effectively improving the printing accuracy and efficiency. Through the real-time monitoring of the sensor 35, it can be ensured that the printing nozzle is always in a safe and stable state during the connection or placement process, avoiding accidental collisions or damages caused by improper positions, protecting the safety and stability of the equipment. At the same time, the precise positioning of the printing nozzle helps to achieve a more uniform and consistent printing effect, improving the printing quality and the consistency of the overall finished product. The sensor 35 can also be used to monitor the connection state between the printing module and the printing nozzle. Once an abnormality or fault is detected, it can immediately issue an alarm or prompt message, facilitating the user to quickly troubleshoot and maintain, reducing the downtime and production losses caused by faults for the user, and contributing to the improvement of the intelligent level of the entire production line, enhancing the production efficiency and flexibility.

[0046] Specifically, a material feeding component 34 for cooperating with the printing nozzle 4 is also provided on the printing module 3. The material feeding component 34 is used to control the printing nozzle 4 to eject a certain amount of material as needed.

[0047] Specifically, a roller body 54 is rotatably provided on the frame 1. Wheel bodies are provided at both ends of the roller body 54. The roller body 54 drives the workbench 2 to approach or move away from the printing module 3 in cooperation with an external belt. The external belt is made of a flexible material. The combination of the roller body 54 and the external belt can transmit power quickly and smoothly, enabling the workbench 2 to approach or move away from the printing module 3 quickly and accurately, improving the response speed and flexibility of the entire printing system. Compared with other complex transmission mechanisms, the combined design of the roller body 54 and the belt is simpler and more compact, not only reducing the manufacturing cost but also reducing the space occupied by the system, making the entire printing equipment more compact, easier to layout and install.

[0048] Specifically, a speed reducer 52 used in conjunction with the first driving member 51 is also provided on the frame 1. The speed reducer 52 is used to precisely control the moving distance of the workbench 2 relative to the printing module 3. Through its characteristic of reducing speed and increasing torque, the speed reducer 52 converts the high-speed and low-torque output of the first driving member 51 into a low-speed and high-torque output, thereby achieving fine control of the moving distance of the workbench 2, greatly improving the positioning accuracy of the workbench during the printing process, ensuring the precise matching of the printing quality and the design. Due to the precise control of the speed reducer 52, the workbench 2 can move according to the preset path and speed, reducing printing errors caused by speed fluctuations or position offsets. The introduction of the speed reducer 52 makes the movement of the entire transmission system more stable, reducing vibrations and noises caused by sudden speed changes or impacts. This not only improves the comfort of the working environment but also reduces the adverse effects of vibrations on the printing quality, enhancing the stability of the entire system.

[0049] The above content is only the preferred embodiment of the present utility model. For those of ordinary skill in the art, according to the idea of the present utility model, there will be changes in the specific implementation manners and application scopes. The content of this specification should not be construed as a limitation to the present utility model.

Claims

1. A 3D printer with multiple print heads, comprising a frame (1), a print head (4) arranged on the frame (1), a workbench (2), and a printing module (3) for picking and placing the print head (4). A driving module for driving the printing module (3) to move relative to the workbench (2) is further arranged on the frame (1). The print head (4) has multiple ones, and is characterized in that: A connecting member is provided on the printing nozzle (4). The printing nozzle (4) is movably arranged on the machine frame (1) via the connecting member. A plurality of printing nozzles (4) are arranged in an array. The printing module (3) is used to cooperate with the printing nozzle (4) to print finished parts on the workbench (2).

2. The 3D printer with multiple nozzles according to claim 1, wherein: The connecting member is a magnetic attracting member (44), and the machine frame (1) is made of ferromagnetic material / a ferromagnetic material for attracting the magnetic attracting member (44) is provided on the machine frame (1). The printing nozzle (4) is movably arranged on the machine frame (1) via the magnetic attracting member (44).

3. A multi-nozzle 3D printer according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that: The connecting member forms a protrusion (45) on the side closer to the machine frame (1) from the printing nozzle (4). A groove for accommodating the protrusion (45) is provided on the machine frame (1). The printing nozzle (4) is used to be limited to a predetermined position on the machine frame (1) via the protrusion (45).

4. A multi-nozzle 3D printer according to claim 1, characterized in that: The driving module includes a corexy moving component arranged on the machine frame (1) for driving the printing module (3) to move along the X-axis and Y-axis. The corexy moving component is used to move the printing module (3) parallel to the workbench (2). The driving module further includes a first driving member (51) arranged on the machine frame (1). The first driving member (51) is used to move the workbench (2) closer to or away from the printing module (3).

5. The 3D printer with multiple nozzles according to claim 1, characterized in that: A cooling nozzle (33) for cooperating with the printing nozzle (4) is provided on the printing module (3). The cooling nozzle (33) is used to connect to an external air source device to cool the printing nozzle (4) and / or the nozzle on the printing nozzle (4).

6. The 3D printer with multiple nozzles according to claim 5, characterized in that: The internal channel of the cooling nozzle (33) gradually narrows from the air inlet to the ventilation port.

7. The 3D printer with multiple nozzles according to claim 1, characterized in that: A limiting member (31) and a second driving member for driving the limiting member (31) to pick up and place the printing nozzle (4) are provided on the printing module (3). A first groove (41) for accommodating the limiting member (31) is provided on the printing nozzle (4). The printing module (3) realizes the picking up and placing of the printing nozzle (4) by the limiting member (31) abutting against / canceling abutting against the inner wall of the first groove (41).

8. A multi-nozzle 3D printer according to claim 1, characterized in that: A sensor (35) is further provided on the printing module (3). The sensor (35) is used to determine the position of the printing module (3) relative to the printing nozzle (4) for connecting or placing the printing nozzle (4).

9. The 3D printer with multiple nozzles according to claim 3, characterized in that: A roller body (54) is rotatably arranged on the machine frame (1). Wheels are arranged at both ends of the roller body (54). The roller body (54) drives the workbench (2) to move closer to or away from the printing module (3) by cooperating with an external belt. The external belt is made of a flexible material.

10. A multi-nozzle 3D printer according to claim 4, characterized in that: A speed reducer (52) for cooperating with the first driving member (51) is further provided on the machine frame (1). The speed reducer (52) is used to control the stable rotation of the roller body via the first driving member (51) to drive the workbench (2) to move relative to the printing module (3).

Images